Exeter statement: Defence coach Salvi exits with immediate effect

The difficult season that Exeter have experienced has had a casualty, defence coach Julian Salvi exiting the Chiefs with immediate effect even though they still have two games remaining in their bid to qualify for the Gallagher Premiership semi-finals. Whereas Exeter had impressively streaked into six successive league finals, winning two titles, this year's campaign has been quite a contrast. 

They are currently fifth on the table with just ten wins in their 22 matches and have conceded 55 tries compared to giving up just 40 last term when they finished second and went on to contest the final against eventual winners Harlequins. They were also recently knocked out of the Heineken Champions Cup at the round of 16 stage by Munster, losing 26-10 in Limerick having held the first-leg advantage of 13-8.  

The Exeter statement confirmed: "Exeter Rugby Club can confirm that defence coach Julian Salvi has left the club with immediate effect."

Some quotes attributed to director of rugby Rob Baxter followed. “I have been looking to make a change and bring in some fresh ideas within the coaching group. Julian was in the scenario that his contract was up at the end of the season and following discussions between myself and him, I have made the decision to make that change now.

“I would like to thank Julian for all of his efforts, not just as a player, but as a coach and as an all-round clubman over the past seven years.

"As a club, we wish Julian and his family all our best wishes for the future. In the interim, I have asked Haydn Thomas to oversee our defence coaching until the end of the season, after which I will look at options as to where we go next in terms of this role within the first-team squad.”

The statement ended with: "Exeter Rugby Club will be making no further comment on this matter."